Encountering a service reminder on your Audi Q5 dashboard can be a common experience, especially when the inspection due message pops up. For 2018 Audi Q5 owners who prefer to handle routine maintenance themselves, resetting this inspection due reminder is a task you can accomplish at home using the right tools. This guide dives into a real-world scenario of a user successfully resetting their 2018 Audi Q5 inspection reminder using VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System), and explores the possible questions and solutions that arise during this process.
Understanding the Issue: The “Equipment Number Invalid” Error
One Audi Q5 owner, after performing their own service and inspections post the initial dealer service, faced a peculiar issue while trying to reset the inspection due reminder. Utilizing VCDS, a diagnostic tool popular among VW and Audi enthusiasts, they encountered an unexpected error message. After initiating the Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) reset, a message appeared stating: “This equipment number is invalid: Equipment number must be 5-6 digits; 00001-999999“. This message suggested a potential problem with the equipment number stored in the vehicle’s system, hinting that a value like “00000” might be causing препятствие to the reset procedure.
This invalid equipment number error prevented the user from directly resetting the inspection reminder through the standard VCDS prompts. Further attempts to save specified values on channels 11 and 12 within VCDS also failed, indicating a deeper issue beyond a simple reset command.
The Accidental Fix: Persistence Pays Off
In a moment of troubleshooting persistence, the Audi Q5 owner decided to repeatedly press the “Yes” option on the error message prompt. Surprisingly, after the third attempt of confirming “Yes” despite the error, VCDS proceeded to cycle through its processes. Ultimately, the “Time since last time-dependent inspection” value, which was reading “729 days,” changed to “0 days.” Correspondingly, the “Inspection Due in 1 Day” advisory message on the dashboard disappeared, indicating a successful, albeit unconventional, reset.
This experience highlights that sometimes, in software interactions, unexpected actions can lead to solutions. However, it also raises several important questions about the underlying causes and proper procedures for resetting the inspection due reminder on a 2018 Audi Q5.
Decoding the Log File and Equipment Numbers
The user’s experience, documented in a VCDS log file, provides valuable insights into the process and potential anomalies. The log reveals several key pieces of information:
- Initial State: Before the successful reset, the “Time since last time-dependent inspection” was at 729 days. This aligns with the user’s statement that their last dealer service was approximately two years prior (729 days).
- Error Message Context: The error message about the invalid equipment number appeared during the SRI reset procedure, specifically when trying to save values on channels 11 and 12.
- Successful Reset: After repeatedly pressing “Yes,” the log confirms the “Time since last time-dependent inspection” was successfully changed to 0 days, and the advisory message was cleared.
The user raises pertinent questions regarding the equipment numbers observed: “00000” and “444”. It’s speculated that “00000” might be a default or erroneous equipment number hindering the reset, while “444” could potentially be related to the dealer service performed previously.
Possible Explanations:
- “00000” Equipment Number: This could indeed be an invalid or default equipment number stored in the system. It might be a placeholder value that, under normal circumstances, should be replaced or updated. The VCDS system might be expecting a valid 5-6 digit equipment number for certain reset functions.
- “444” Equipment Number: The origin and significance of “444” are less clear from the provided information. It’s possible that the dealer used a specific equipment number during the initial service, or it might be a module-specific identifier. Further investigation within VCDS or Audi service documentation might be needed to understand its role.
Changing the Inspection Interval and Equipment Number (Advanced)
The Audi Q5 owner also inquired about adjusting the default inspection interval of 730 days and changing the “00000” equipment number to a valid value like “00001”.
Adjusting Inspection Interval:
The VCDS log shows channels related to inspection intervals:
- IDE03350-FIX: Maximum time until next time-dependent inspection: Currently set to 730 days.
- IDE01154-SIA: maximum value of time to service: Currently set to 365 days.
Using VCDS, it is likely possible to modify these values to adjust the service intervals according to personal preference or specific driving conditions. However, it’s crucial to understand the implications of changing these settings and to adhere to Audi’s recommended service schedules for optimal vehicle maintenance and warranty considerations.
Changing Equipment Number:
Modifying equipment numbers is generally not recommended for amateur users unless there is a clear understanding of the implications and procedures. Incorrectly changing equipment numbers could lead to malfunctions or communication issues within the vehicle’s electronic systems. If the “00000” equipment number is indeed causing issues, consulting with a VCDS expert or a qualified Audi technician is advisable before attempting to change it.
Conclusion
Resetting the inspection due reminder on a 2018 Audi Q5 can sometimes present unexpected challenges, as illustrated by the user’s experience with the “Equipment number invalid” error. While persistence led to a successful reset in this particular case, it’s essential to approach such procedures with caution and a good understanding of the tools and systems involved. For DIY enthusiasts, VCDS offers powerful diagnostic and customization capabilities, but it’s crucial to use it responsibly and seek expert advice when facing unfamiliar issues or considering advanced modifications like changing equipment numbers or service intervals. Always prioritize accurate vehicle maintenance and consult official Audi resources or qualified technicians when in doubt.
